Kawasaki's influence on GasGas?

[jgas]

My 01 GG 250 XC feels alot like my 96 KX felt. The GasGas frame is nickel plated and shiny, but looks quite a bit like an older KX frame. I have heard GG guys say they copied older KX frames and steering geometry. In fact, 96-97 rear fenders and number plates will fit the Gasser, and I think tank shrouds will also fit with some very slight modification.

I do know that GasGas closely copied Hondas older powervalve design, and they use Honda top and bottom end bearings. Some Honda motor and head gaskets will fit as will oversized pistons from the 85-6 Honda 3 wheeler ATC 250 R. The head is not exactly the same as a Honda, but very close. The info I've gotten is that GasGas bought one each of the Japanese brands when designing the early, (96-7) Gassers, and tested them all then used which ever they thought was the best designs from the Japs, improving where they could. Nothing seems exactly the same as any other bike but alot of things are very close to various bikes. Anyway, just out of curiosity I wondered if anyone has input on this?

[adam728]

Everyone copies everyone. Very common. Has been that way forever.

The last generation RM250 used the same reeds and block as the current YZ250, as in there's only 1 model v-force for both bikes. I ran a KTM piston in my YZ. Many connecting rods and clutch plates will fit multiple brands.

Sent via morse code

[jgas]

I didnt' know that. I knew brake pads and some cables exchanged. No wonder I have never been brand loyal, just dealer loyal.

[zz3gmc]

I have heard that GG copied the steering geometry and ergos of the early KXs. I had a chance to ride a 11 GG 250 for a couple of hours a few years ago and found that even that bike felt similar to my 04 KX250. Its the only euro bike that Ive ridden that feels similar to my bike and feel that I can transition easily to one. All the KTMs that I have ridden including a 14 200 dont turn to my liking.